Dish washer

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dishwasher in which the components of a heat pump system, such as a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, evaporator, and refrigerant piping, are arranged to be distributed as close as possible to the perimeter wall of the base, and the compressor, condenser, and evaporator, which occupy a relatively large volume, are arranged in a position where the amount of horizontal overlap between them can be minimized, thereby allowing easy access to the components housed in the base through the open area of ​​the base, so that maintenance processes can be easily carried out not only on the components of the heat pump but also on existing components such as a washing pump and a water softener without separating the tub.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a dishwasher, and more specifically, to a dishwasher in which a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, evaporator, and refrigerant piping constituting a heat pump system are arranged to be distributed as close as possible to the perimeter wall of the base, and the compressor, condenser, and evaporator, which occupy a relatively large volume, are arranged in a position where the amount of horizontal overlap between them can be minimized, thereby allowing easy access to the components housed in the base through the open area of ​​the base, so that maintenance processes can be easily carried out not only on the heat pump components but also on existing components such as a washing pump and a water softener without separating the tub. Background Technology

[0002] A dishwasher is a device that cleans items stored inside, such as dishes and cooking utensils, by spraying cleaning water, such as regular water. At this time, the cleaning water used may contain detergent.

[0003] A dishwasher is generally configured to include a tub forming a washing space, a storage compartment accommodating objects to be washed inside the tub, a spray arm spraying washing water into the storage compartment, and a sump storing water and supplying washing water to the spray arm.

[0004] By using such a dishwasher, the time and effort required for washing items such as dishes after a meal can be reduced, thereby contributing to user convenience.

[0005] When using a dishwasher for washing, the wash water and air can be heated to enhance the washing effect. An electric heater can be used as a means of heating the wash water and air.

[0006] Meanwhile, dishwashers equipped with heat pump devices instead of electric heaters as an alternative heating method are emerging.

[0007] Since heat pumps have significantly higher energy efficiency compared to electric heaters, heating wash water with a heat pump can reduce electricity consumption compared to electric heaters.

[0008] In this regard, Chinese Patent Publication No. 118806186 (Prior Art 001) discloses the configuration of a dishwasher including a heat pump device as a heat source for washing water. Prior art literature

[0009] Chinese Patent Publication No. 118806186 The problem to be solved

[0010] However, the dishwasher disclosed in the aforementioned prior art document 001 is configured such that the compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator constituting the heat pump device are densely arranged and positioned together with the components of the conventional dishwasher at locations individually distributed on the bottom surface of the base.

[0011] Therefore, the components of the heat pump device of prior art 001 are arranged quite densely together with the components of a conventional dishwasher, resulting in a large amount of overlap along the left-right and front-back directions.

[0012] Accordingly, when the tub is coupled to the base, components placed in overlapping positions along the left-right or front-back directions within the inner area of ​​the base by other components inevitably become inaccessible from the outside through the base unless the tub is removed.

[0013] As a result, the dishwasher disclosed in prior art 001 requires that the case and tub be completely separated from the base not only when repair or replacement is to be performed due to a failure of a specific component housed in the base, but also for simple maintenance and repair processes such as refrigerant replenishment or replacement, or simple inspection of each component.

[0014] Therefore, it inevitably faces the problem of having a structure that is highly disadvantageous for the maintenance and repair of the components housed in the base.

[0015] In addition, the dishwasher disclosed in prior art 001 does not have a separate means to filter foreign substances entering the evaporator.

[0016] Therefore, it presents a problem in that it cannot prevent the evaporator itself from being contaminated by foreign substances, such as dust, contained in the airflow entering the evaporator, and the generation of foul odors caused by contamination resulting from the mixing of condensate and foreign substances produced by the evaporator.

[0017] The present invention is devised to solve the problems of the aforementioned prior art, and its first objective is to provide a dishwasher in which the components of the heat pump system, such as the compressor, condenser, expansion valve, evaporator, and refrigerant piping, are arranged to be distributed as close as possible to the perimeter wall of the base, and the compressor, condenser, and evaporator, which occupy a relatively large volume, are arranged in a position where the amount of horizontal overlap between them can be minimized, thereby allowing easy access to the components housed in the base through the open area of ​​the base, so that maintenance processes can be easily carried out not only on the components of the heat pump but also on existing components such as the washing pump and water softener without separating the tub.

[0018] In addition, the present invention provides a dishwasher configured such that a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, evaporator, and refrigerant piping constituting a heat pump system are arranged in a base so that they can be collectively removed and retracted through an open side of the base. This allows the entire heat pump system to be removed to the outside by disassembling only a part of the case without the need to separate the tub from the base when maintenance and repair of the heat pump system are required, thereby significantly improving the convenience of complex maintenance processes, such as replacing components.

[0019] In addition, the third objective of the present invention is to provide a dishwasher in which an air filter is detachably mounted on the inlet side of a heat exchange duct housing an evaporator, thereby significantly preventing the internal space of the heat exchange duct and the evaporator refrigerant pipe constituting the evaporator from being contaminated by foreign substances.

[0020] The objects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned objects and advantages of the present invention may be understood from the following description and will be more clearly understood by the embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be readily apparent that the objects and advantages of the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims. means of solving the problem

[0021] A dishwasher according to the present invention comprises: a tub forming a washing space and accommodating dishes; a base disposed below the tub; a sump storing washing water to be supplied to the tub; and a heat pump module disposed in the receiving space and heating the washing water supplied to the sump; wherein an open area is formed in the outer perimeter wall of the base to communicate the receiving space with an external space, and the heat pump module is exposed through the open area.

[0022] In addition, the above-mentioned open areas are provided in multiple numbers and can be formed to be open along different directions on the outer perimeter wall of the base.

[0023] In addition, the heat pump module includes a plurality of functionally distinct components, and at least some of the plurality of components may be positioned adjacent to any one of the plurality of open areas.

[0024] Additionally, the system further includes a main control panel detachably disposed on one side wall among the outer perimeter walls; the heat pump module includes a compressor that compresses refrigerant and is disposed between the sump and the main control panel with respect to the left-right direction; the open area includes a one-sided open area formed on the one side wall; the main control panel is disposed in a state that covers the one-sided open area; and when the main control panel is removed from the one side wall, the compressor can be exposed to the outside through the one-sided open area.

[0025] In addition, the compressor may be positioned closer to the main control panel than the sump based on the left-right direction.

[0026] Additionally, it further includes a cleaning pump positioned in front of the compressor and pressurizing the cleaning water to be supplied to the tub; and when the main control panel is removed from the one-sided wall, the cleaning pump can be exposed to the outside through the one-sided open area.

[0027] Additionally, the heat pump module includes a condenser that is positioned between the sump and the front wall of the base with respect to the front-rear direction and heats the washing water to be supplied to the tub; the open area includes a front open area formed in the front wall, and the condenser can be exposed to the outside through the front open area.

[0028] In addition, the condenser can be placed on the base such that the left-right direction is the length direction.

[0029] In addition, the condenser may be positioned closer to the front wall of the base than the sump in the front-rear direction.

[0030] Additionally, it further includes a condenser cover positioned in front of the condenser and positioned to cover the condenser; wherein one end of the condenser cover in the left / right direction is positioned further to the right than the center of the sump, and the other end of the condenser cover in the left / right direction may be positioned further to the left than the center of the sump.

[0031] Additionally, it further includes a water softening device positioned between the sump and the other side wall of the base with respect to the left-right direction and softening the washing water to be supplied to the sump; and one end of the condenser cover may be positioned closer to the center of the sump than the right end of the water softening device with respect to the left-right direction.

[0032] Additionally, it further includes a cleaning pump that pressurizes the cleaning water to be supplied to the tub; and the other end of the condenser cover may be positioned closer to the center of the sump than the left end of the cleaning pump with respect to the left-right direction.

[0033] Additionally, the lower frame is further included, the lower portion of which is coupled to the front wall of the base, and the condenser cover is coupled to the front wall of the base or the lower frame, and a front gap may be formed between the condenser cover and the front wall of the base or between the condenser cover and the lower frame.

[0034] Additionally, it further includes a main control panel detachably disposed on one side wall among the outer perimeter walls, and a left gap is formed between the top of the main control panel and the tub, and the left-right width of the front gap may be narrower than the front-back width of the left gap.

[0035] Additionally, the lower frame is further included, the lower portion of which is coupled to the front wall of the base, and the condenser cover is detachably coupled to the lower frame, and the condenser cover can be separated from the lower frame while the lower frame is coupled to the front wall of the base.

[0036] Additionally, it further includes a water softening device positioned between the sump and the other side wall of the base with respect to the left and right directions, and softening the washing water to be supplied to the sump; wherein the open area includes an open area formed on the other side wall, and the water softening device can be exposed to the outside through the open area.

[0037] Additionally, the heat pump module includes an evaporator disposed between the sump and the rear wall of the base with respect to the front-rear direction; the open area includes a rear open area formed in the rear wall, and the evaporator can be exposed to the outside through the rear open area.

[0038] In addition, the evaporator may be positioned closer to the rear wall of the base than the sump, based on the front-rear direction.

[0039] Additionally, the heat pump module further includes a heat exchange duct that accommodates the evaporator internally and forms a passage through which an airflow to be heat-exchanged with the evaporator flows; and the heat exchange duct may be positioned to be in close contact with the inner surface of the rear wall of the base.

[0040] In addition, the heat exchange duct is provided with an exhaust port through which the airflow heat-exchanged with the evaporator is discharged, and the exhaust port is connected to the rear open area, and the airflow heat-exchanged with the evaporator can pass through the rear open area and be exhausted to the outside. Effects of the invention

[0041] The dishwasher according to the present invention has the effect of enabling easy access to the components of the heat pump system housed in the base and the components placed in the existing base through the open area of ​​the base, thereby allowing the maintenance process to be easily carried out not only on the components of the heat pump but also on existing components such as the washing pump and water softener without separating the tub.

[0042] In addition, the dishwasher according to the present invention has the effect of significantly improving the convenience of maintenance and repair, as the heat pump system can be brought out entirely to the outside through an open side of the base without the need to separate the tub from the base when maintenance and repair of the heat pump system is required, even if only a part of the case is disassembled.

[0043] In addition, the dishwasher according to the present invention has the effect of preventing the occurrence of odors that may be generated when the internal space of the heat exchange duct housing the evaporator and the evaporator refrigerant pipe constituting the evaporator are contaminated by foreign substances contained in the airflow, or when foreign substances are mixed with condensed water.

[0044] In addition to the effects described above, the specific effects of the present invention are described together with the specific details for implementing the invention below. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0045] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the dishwasher shown in Figure 1. FIG. 3 is a front perspective view showing the door of the dishwasher shown in FIG. 1 in an open state. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a heat pump module provided in a dishwasher according to the present invention. FIG. 5 is a front perspective view showing a state in which a heat pump module constituting a dishwasher according to the present invention is housed in a base. FIG. 6 is a plan view of a heat pump module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a plan view showing the state in which the heat pump module illustrated in FIG. 6 is mounted on a base. FIGS. 8 to 11 are front perspective views illustrating the process of exposing a condenser to the outside through the front wall of a base for maintenance of a condenser of a heat pump module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 12 to 14 are a front perspective view and a plan view illustrating the evaporator and heat exchange duct shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 15 is a rear perspective view showing a state in which an exhaust port for exhausting the airflow passing through the heat exchange duct shown in FIG. 14 is formed on the rear wall of the base and a state in which a guide vane is coupled to the exhaust port. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along the horizontal direction with the heat pump module shown in FIG. 6 mounted on the base. FIGS. 17 and FIGS. 22 are a front perspective view and a plan view illustrating the process of an air filter according to an embodiment of the present invention being coupled to a base. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0046] The aforementioned objectives, features, and advantages are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to easily implement the technical concept of the present invention. In describing the present invention, detailed descriptions of known technologies related to the present invention are omitted if it is determined that such descriptions would unnecessarily obscure the essence of the invention. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same or similar components.

[0047] Although terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various components, it goes without saying that these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless specifically stated otherwise, the first component may also be the second component.

[0048] Throughout the specification, unless specifically stated otherwise, each component may be singular or plural.

[0049] In the following, the statement that any configuration is placed on the "upper (or lower)" of a component or on the "upper (or lower)" of a component may mean not only that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper (or lower) surface of said component, but also that another configuration may be interposed between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.

[0050] In addition, where it is stated that one component is "connected," "combined," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while the components may be directly connected or connected to each other, another component may be "interposed" between each component, or each component may be "connected," "combined," or "connected" through another component.

[0051] Singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "composed of" or "comprising" should not be interpreted as necessarily including all of the various components or steps described in the specification, and should be interpreted as meaning that some of the components or steps may be omitted or additional components or steps may be included.

[0052] Additionally, singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "composed of" or "comprising" should not be interpreted as necessarily including all of the various components or steps described in the specification, and should be interpreted as meaning that some of the components or steps may not be included, or that additional components or steps may be included.

[0053] Throughout the specification, "A and / or B" means A, B, or A and B unless specifically stated otherwise, and "C to D" means C or more and D or less unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0054] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to drawings illustrating the configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] [Overall Structure of the Dishwasher]

[0056] Hereinafter, the overall structure of the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0057] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view showing a dishwasher (1) according to the present invention, FIG. 2 is a simplified cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a front perspective view showing the dishwasher (1) with the door (30) open.

[0058] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention may include a case (10) that forms an outer shape.

[0059] For example, the case (10) may include an upper panel (11), a left side panel (12), a right side panel (13), and a front panel (15) that form the upper surface, left side, and right side, respectively, of the exterior of the dishwasher (1).

[0060] These upper panel (11), left side panel (12), right side panel (13) and front panel (15) can be formed integrally or formed individually and assembled.

[0061] In addition, the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention may include a tub (20) that is installed inside a case (10), forms a washing space (21) where objects to be washed are washed, and has an open front surface.

[0062] In addition, the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention may include a door (30) that opens and closes the open front surface of the tub (20).

[0063] In addition, the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention may include a base (90) that is positioned at the bottom of the tub (2) and serves to support the tub (2).

[0064] Additionally, the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention may include a drive unit (40) located at the bottom of the tub (20) for supplying, collecting, circulating, and draining washing water for washing objects.

[0065] In addition, the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention may include a storage portion (50) that is detachably provided in the internal washing space (21) of the tub (20) and on which an object to be washed is placed.

[0066] In addition, the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention may include a spray unit installed adjacent to the storage unit (50) and spraying water for washing objects to be washed.

[0067] At this time, the objects to be cleaned placed in the storage section (50) may be, for example, tableware such as bowls, plates, spoons, chopsticks, and other cooking utensils. Unless otherwise mentioned below, the objects to be cleaned will be referred to as tableware.

[0068] First, the tub (20) can be formed in a box shape with the front surface completely open, corresponding to a configuration known as a so-called washing tank.

[0069] A washing space (21) is formed inside the tub (20), and the open front surface can be opened and closed by a door (30).

[0070] The tub (20) can be formed by press forming a metal plate that is resistant to high temperature and moisture, for example, a stainless steel-based material.

[0071] Additionally, on the inner surface of the tub (20), a plurality of brackets may be arranged for the purpose of supporting and installing functional components such as the storage unit (50) and injection unit described later within the tub (20).

[0072] Meanwhile, the drive unit (40) may be configured to include a sump (41) for storing washing water, a sump cover (42) for separating the sump (41) from the tub (20), a water supply unit (43) for supplying washing water to the sump (41) from the outside, a drainage unit (44) for discharging washing water from the sump (41) to the outside, a washing pump (45) for supplying washing water from the sump (41) to a spray unit, and a supply path (46).

[0073] The sump cover (42) is positioned above the sump (41) and can serve to spatially separate the tub (20) and the sump (41).

[0074] Additionally, the sump cover (42) may be provided with a plurality of recovery holes to recover the washing water sprayed into the washing space (21) through the spraying part into the sump (41).

[0075] That is, the washing water sprayed from the sprayer toward the dishes falls to the bottom of the washing space (21) and can be recovered back into the sump (41) via the sump cover (42).

[0076] The washing pump (45) is provided on one side of the sump (41) and functions to pressurize washing water and supply it to the spraying section.

[0077] One end of the washing pump (45) can be connected to the sump (41) and the other end can be connected to the supply path (46).

[0078] The washing pump (45) may be equipped with an impeller (451) and a motor (453), etc. When power is supplied to the motor (453), the impeller (451) rotates, and the washing water in the sump (41) is pressurized and then supplied to the spraying section through the supply path (46).

[0079] Although not shown, the washing pump (45) may be equipped with a washing water heater to heat the washing water supplied to the tub (20) during the washing or heating and rinsing process.

[0080] Meanwhile, the supply channel (46) serves to selectively supply washing water supplied from the washing pump (45) to the spraying section.

[0081] For example, the supply channel (46) may include a first supply channel (461) connected to the lower injection arm (61), and a second supply channel (463) connected to the upper injection arm (62) and the top nozzle (63).

[0082] The supply channel (46) may be equipped with a supply channel switching valve (465) that selectively opens and closes the supply channels (461, 463).

[0083] At this time, the supply flow switching valve (465) can be controlled so that each supply flow (461, 463) is opened sequentially and selectively or simultaneously.

[0084] Meanwhile, the spray unit is provided to spray washing water onto dishes stored in the storage unit (50).

[0085] More specifically, the spraying unit may include a lower spray arm (61) located at the bottom of the tub (20) and spraying cleaning water to the lower rack (51).

[0086] Additionally, the spraying unit may include an upper spray arm (62) located between the lower rack (51) and the upper rack (52) and spraying cleaning water to the lower rack (51) and the upper rack (52).

[0087] Additionally, the spraying unit may include a top nozzle (63) located at the top of the tub (20) and spraying washing water to the top rack (53) or the upper rack (52).

[0088] In particular, the lower spray arm (61) and the upper spray arm (62) are rotatably provided in the washing space (21) of the tub (20) so as to spray washing water while rotating toward the dishes mounted in the storage unit (50).

[0089] The lower spray arm (61) can be rotatably supported on the upper side of the sump cover (42) so as to rotate at the lower side of the lower rack (51) and spray cleaning water toward the lower rack (51).

[0090] In addition, the upper spray arm (62) can be rotatably supported by a spray arm holder (467) so that it can spray cleaning water while rotating between the lower rack (51) and the upper rack (52).

[0091] Meanwhile, although not shown, the lower wall (25) of the tub (20) may be further provided with means to divert the cleaning water sprayed from the lower spray arm (61) in an upward direction (U-direction) to increase cleaning efficiency.

[0092] As the detailed configuration of the injection unit can be any configuration already known in the industry, the specific description of the injection unit's configuration will be omitted below.

[0093] Meanwhile, the washing space (21) may be provided with a storage section (50) for storing tableware.

[0094] The storage unit (50) can be provided to be inserted and removed from the interior of the tub (20) through the open front surface of the tub (20).

[0095] For example, FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment comprising a storage unit configured to include a lower rack (51) located at the bottom of the tub (20) and capable of storing relatively large tableware, an upper rack (52) located above the lower rack (51) and capable of storing medium-sized tableware, and a top rack (53) located at the top of the tub (20) and capable of storing small tableware.

[0096] The present invention is not limited thereto, but will be described based on an embodiment of a dishwasher (1) equipped with three storage compartments (50) as illustrated.

[0097] These lower racks (51), upper racks (52) and top racks (53) can each be configured to be pulled out to the outside through the open front surface of the tub (20).

[0098] To this end, guide rails (54) may be provided on the side walls (26, 27) forming the inner surface of the tub (20). As described below, the guide rails (54) may include, for example, an upper rail (542), a lower rail (541), and a top rail (543).

[0099] A roller or wheel may be provided on the lower rack (51), upper rack (52), and top rack (53), respectively. By pulling the lower rack (51), upper rack (52), and top rack (53) out through the front of the tub (20), the user can store dishes in them or easily take out dishes that have been washed from them.

[0100] The guide rail (54) may be provided as a fixed guide rail in the form of a simple rail to guide the withdrawal and insertion of the storage unit (50), or as an extendable guide rail that guides the withdrawal and insertion of the storage unit (50) and increases the withdrawal distance as the storage unit (50) is withdrawn.

[0101] Meanwhile, the door (30) is intended to open and close the open front surface of the tub (20) described above.

[0102] A hinge portion (not shown) for opening and closing the door (30) is provided at the lower part of the normally open front surface, and, for example, the door (30) can be rotated in a top-down manner with the hinge portion as a rotation axis to open the tub (20).

[0103] Here, on the outer surface of the door (30), a handle (31) for opening the door (30) and a control panel (32) for controlling the operation of the dishwasher (1) may be provided.

[0104] As described above, the control panel (32) may be equipped with a display (33) that visually displays information regarding the current operating status of the dishwasher (1), etc.

[0105] Additionally, the control panel (32) may be provided with a button section (34) including a selection button for inputting a user's course selection operation and a power button for inputting a user's operation to turn the dishwasher on and off.

[0106] Meanwhile, the rear panel (30b) forming the inner side of the door (30) can form one side of the tub (20) when the door (30) is closed, and at the same time, form a seating surface on which the lower rack (51) of the storage unit (50) can be supported when the door (30) is fully opened.

[0107] To this end, when the door (30) is fully opened, it is preferable that the rear panel (30b) of the door (30) forms a horizontal plane in the same direction as the guide rail (54) in which the lower rack (51) is guided extends.

[0108] Meanwhile, the rear panel (30b) constituting the inner surface of the door (30) may be further equipped with a detergent supply device for automatically supplying detergent into the interior of the tub (20).

[0109] Additionally, a door position detection unit (36) for detecting whether the door (30) is in a closed state or an open state may be provided on the outer side of the upper surface of the tub (20). For example, the door position detection unit (36) may include a door position sensor (S_d) or a latch sensor that detects the position of a door latch not shown.

[0110] Meanwhile, a drying air supply unit (80) for generating and supplying high or low temperature drying air to the cleaning space inside the tub (20) may be provided at the bottom of the tub (20).

[0111] As described above, the drying air supply unit (80) may be configured to include a filter member (883) for filtering external air, a blower fan (825) for generating a drying air stream, a heater (84) for heating the drying air stream, and an airflow guide (83) that is positioned inside the tub (20) and guides the drying air stream.

[0112] The lower wall (25) of the tub (20) may be provided with a drying air supply hole (254) so ​​that high-temperature drying air generated from the drying air supply unit (80) can be introduced into the interior of the tub (20).

[0113] By supplying high-temperature drying air or low-temperature drying air through such a drying air supply unit (80) into the interior of the tub (20) during the drying process, the drying efficiency and sterilization effect for tableware can be significantly improved compared to conventional methods.

[0114] Meanwhile, some of the airflow supplied into the interior of the tub (20) and humidified while drying the dishes may be discharged to the outside, and the remaining portion may be sucked into the drying air supply unit (80), and the discharge of the airflow may be achieved through partial opening of the door (30) or through a separate exhaust means not shown.

[0115] An intake duct (81) for recovering humid air from the tub (20) may be provided on the outer side of the left wall (26) or the outer side of the right wall (27) of the tub (20).

[0116] Meanwhile, the base (90) can provide a receiving space for components of the dishwasher (1), such as a sump (41).

[0117] To this end, the base (90) may include an outer perimeter wall forming the outer boundary of the receiving space. More specifically, the outer perimeter wall of the base (90) may include a front wall, a rear wall, a left wall, and a right wall.

[0118] Furthermore, the tub (20) can be directly or indirectly supported through the front wall, rear wall, left wall, and right wall of the base (90).

[0119] Meanwhile, the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention may further include a heat pump system as a means for heating the washing water to be supplied to the tub (20).

[0120] The heat pump system may be provided together with the aforementioned wash water heater, or provided independently without the wash water heater.

[0121] As described below, the heat pump system provided in the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention can be placed inside the base (90) in a modular state.

[0122] In addition, the heat pump system is modularized and configured to be inserted and removed from the base (90) in bulk.

[0123] In consideration of this, the heat pump system provided in the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention shall be referred to as a heat pump module (100).

[0124] The detailed configuration of the heat pump module (100) will be described later with reference to FIG. 4 and below.

[0125] [Schematic Configuration of a Heat Pump System]

[0126] Hereinafter, the detailed configuration of a heat pump module (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 4 and below.

[0127] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a heat pump module (100).

[0128] Referring to FIG. 4, the heat pump module (100) may be configured to include a plurality of functionally distinct components, such as a compressor (110), a condenser (120), an expansion valve (140), and an evaporator (130).

[0129] The compressor (110), condenser (120), expansion valve (140), and evaporator (130) can be sequentially connected through a refrigerant pipe (150), and the refrigerant pipe (150) provides a refrigerant flow path through which the refrigerant can flow.

[0130] For example, the refrigerant piping (150) may be configured to include a first pipe (151) connecting the compressor (110) and the condenser (120), a second pipe (152) connecting the condenser (120) and the expansion valve (140), a third pipe (153) connecting the expansion valve (140) and the evaporator (130), and a fourth pipe (154) connecting the evaporator (130) and the compressor (110).

[0131] The refrigerant can function as a working fluid that absorbs or releases heat while undergoing a phase change from liquid to gas or vice versa as it circulates sequentially through the compressor (110), condenser (120), expansion valve (140), and evaporator (130).

[0132] The compressor (110) compresses the refrigerant and discharges the refrigerant in a high temperature and high pressure state. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor (110) can be introduced into the condenser (120) through the first pipe (151).

[0133] The refrigerant can release heat of QH as it passes through the condenser (120). The heat released from the condenser (120) can be used to heat the wash water to be supplied to the tub (20).

[0134] Accordingly, the condenser (120) may be provided with separate flow paths through which the refrigerant and the cleaning water pass. As the refrigerant passes through the condenser (120), it releases heat and undergoes a phase change from a gaseous state to a liquid state, thereby exchanging heat with the cleaning water.

[0135] At this time, the refrigerant that passes through the condenser (120) may be a mixture of liquid and gas with a very low proportion of gas, or a subcooled liquid.

[0136] The refrigerant exiting the condenser (120) can expand as it passes through the expansion valve (140). As a result of the expansion of the refrigerant, the temperature of the refrigerant is lowered, and the refrigerant can become a mixed gas in which gas and liquid are mixed.

[0137] The refrigerant exiting the expansion valve (140) is introduced into the evaporator (130) via the third pipe (153), and as it passes through the evaporator (130), it exchanges heat with the air in the receiving space of the base (90), absorbs QL of heat from the air and evaporates, thereby increasing the proportion of gas in the refrigerant.

[0138] When the refrigerant comes out of the evaporator (130), it may be a mixed gas with a very low proportion of liquid or a superheated gas.

[0139] The refrigerant exiting the evaporator (130) passes through the fourth pipe (154) and flows back into the compressor (110), and after being introduced into the compressor (110), it can be compressed and converted into a high-temperature and high-pressure gas. Meanwhile, in order to prevent the introduction of liquid refrigerant discharged from the evaporator (130), the refrigerant passing through the fourth pipe (154) can be introduced into the compressor (110) after passing through a gas-liquid separator (113).

[0140] In this order, the refrigerant circulates through the heat pump module (100) and undergoes a phase change, and accordingly, the refrigerant can absorb heat in the evaporator (130) and release heat in the condenser (120).

[0141] Meanwhile, in order to increase the heat exchange efficiency in the evaporator (130), it is desirable to allow a large amount of air to flow toward the evaporator (130). To this end, the heat pump module (100) may further be equipped with a blower module (180) that blows air toward the evaporator (130) to generate an airflow.

[0142] As described below, the blower module (180) may be configured to include, for example, a blower fan (181) that accelerates air to generate an airflow, and a blower motor (182) that generates rotational driving force for the blower fan (181).

[0143] Additionally, as described below, the blower fan (181) and the blower motor (182) can be housed together with the evaporator (130) inside a heat exchange duct (170) that forms a passage through which the airflow (F_in) to be heat exchanged with the evaporator (130) flows.

[0144] Meanwhile, the heat pump module (100) of the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention may be installed directly on the base (90), or may be installed collectively in the receiving space of the base (90) in a modularized state separate from the base (90) and configured to be removed collectively from the receiving space of the base (90) to the outside.

[0145] Figure 5 and below illustrate, as an example, a configuration in which a heat pump module (100) is installed collectively in the receiving space of the base (90) in a modularized state separate from the base (90) and removed collectively from the receiving space of the base (90).

[0146] The present invention is not limited thereto, but will be described below based on the illustrated configuration.

[0147] For batch installation and batch removal, the heat pump module (100) may include a module base (160) on which at least a compressor (110), an evaporator (130), and an expansion valve (140) are installed in batches.

[0148] The compressor (110), evaporator (130), and expansion valve (140) constituting the heat pump module (100) can be mounted on the base (90) in a state where they are directly connected to the module base (160) and directly supported by the module base (160).

[0149] As described below, the module base (160) is positioned so as to be in surface contact with the bottom surface (91) of the base (90) and can be positioned on the base (90) so as to be directly supported through the bottom surface (91) of the base (90).

[0150] However, as described below, the condenser (120) may be configured to be directly or indirectly fixed and supported on the bottom surface (91) of the base (90) rather than the module base (160).

[0151] Accordingly, the compressor (110), evaporator (130), and expansion valve (140) constituting the heat pump module (100) can be placed on the base (90) in a state where they are indirectly installed and indirectly supported in the receiving space of the base (90) through the module base (160).

[0152] Meanwhile, the heat pump module (100) of the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention may be installed collectively in the receiving space of the base (90), and configured so that the heat pump module (100) can be removed collectively from the receiving space of the base (90) to the outside, and the heat pump module (100) may be configured to be inserted and removed collectively through an open side of the base (90).

[0153] As illustrated in FIG. 3, a water jacket (71) in which washing water is supplied to and used in the tub (20) during washing and rinsing of dishes may be attached to the outer surface of the right wall (27) of the exemplary tub (20).

[0154] In order to secure sufficient storage capacity, the bottom of the water jacket (71) can extend beyond the lower wall (25) of the tub (20) to the area of ​​the right wall (95) of the base (90).

[0155] At this time, a tub hole (118) may be formed in the water jacket (71) to connect the internal space with the cleaning space (21) of the tub (20).

[0156] A water jacket communication hole (272) may be formed through the right wall (27) of the tub (20) in correspondence with the tub hole (118).

[0157] In order to minimize the inflow of cleaning water and prevent the inflow of foreign matter, a grill cap (118a) similar in shape to the grill cap (813) of the aforementioned air intake hole (271) may be attached to the tub hole (118).

[0158] Additionally, a water softening device (72) for softening the washing water to be supplied to the sump (41) may be placed adjacent to the water jacket (71) and below the lower wall (25) of the tub (20).

[0159] Additionally, as described above, a drying air supply unit (80) may be provided below the lower wall (25) of the tub (20) to heat the air discharged from the tub (20) during the drying process and supply it back to the tub (20).

[0160] Additionally, as illustrated, the dry air supply unit (80) may include an intake duct (81) that sucks in air discharged from the tub (20).

[0161] For example, FIG. 3 illustrates a configuration in which an intake duct (81) is placed alongside a water jacket (71) on the outer surface of the right wall (27) of the tub (20).

[0162] Accordingly, an air intake hole (271) may be formed through the right wall (27) of the tub (20), and a grill cap (8113) that is coupled to the inlet of the intake duct (81) may be fixed to the air intake hole (271).

[0163] Considering the positional constraints in which the drying air supply unit (80), the suction duct (81) of the drying air supply unit (80), the water jacket (71), and the water softening device (72) are arranged as described above, it is preferable that the heat pump module (100) be configured to be inserted and removed at a location that minimizes interference with the drying air supply unit (80), the water jacket (71), and the water softening device (72).

[0164] To this end, the heat pump module (100) can be configured to be inserted and removed from the open left wall (94) of the base (90).

[0165] However, this is merely illustrative, and in the case where the drying air supply unit (80), the intake duct (81) of the drying air supply unit (80), the water jacket (71), and the water softening device (72) are positioned to the left of the sump (41) in close proximity to the right wall (27) of the tub (20) and the right wall (95) of the base (90), the heat pump module (100) may be configured to be inserted and removed from the open right wall (95) of the base (90).

[0166] The present invention is not limited thereto, but below, the invention will be described based on exemplary embodiments in which the heat pump module (100) is configured to be inserted and removed from the open left wall (94) of the base (90).

[0167] Furthermore, a plurality of functionally distinct components, such as a compressor (110), a condenser (120), and an evaporator (130), which constitute the heat pump module (100) according to the present invention, can be configured so that maintenance measures can be taken while mounted on the base (90) without collective removal.

[0168] More specifically, as described below, the outer perimeter wall of the base (90) may be provided with a plurality of open areas that are each opened along different directions.

[0169] That is, in the front wall (92), rear wall (93), left wall (94), and right wall (95) constituting the outer perimeter wall of the base (90), an open area that opens along a different direction can be formed through the horizontal direction.

[0170] At this time, at least some of the plurality of components constituting the heat pump module (100) may be positioned adjacent to any one of the open areas formed in the front wall (92), rear wall (93), left wall (94), and right wall (95) of the base (90).

[0171] Through this, measures for simple maintenance of the components of the heat pump module (100) placed adjacent to the open area formed on the outer perimeter wall of the base (90) are made possible without collective removal of the heat pump module (100).

[0172] Here, the outer perimeter wall of the base (90) of the dishwasher (1) includes four wall surfaces such as the front wall (92), rear wall (93), left wall (94), and right wall (95), but wall surfaces may be covered by other parts such as a water softener (72) and a washing pump (45) in addition to the heat pump module (100).

[0173] Additionally, since the number of components of the heat pump module (100) can be three or more, such as a condenser (120), an evaporator (130), a compressor (110), and an expansion valve (140), an embodiment in which two of these components are placed adjacent to different walls or three components are placed adjacent to different walls of the base (90) can also be applied.

[0174] Additionally, being positioned adjacently may mean that the straight-line distance to an open area formed in the outer perimeter wall of the base (90) is shorter than the distance to another open area, so that it corresponds to a relatively good position for a user or worker to insert their hand or tool to work. Therefore, defining it as "at least some" can be understood to include all of the above cases.

[0175] [Modular structure of the heat pump module and exposed structure through the open area of ​​the base]

[0176] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 6 and FIGS. 15, an exemplary modular structure of a heat pump module (100) according to the present invention and an exposed structure through a plurality of open areas of a base (90) will be specifically described.

[0177] That is, the placement positions and arrangement directions of the compressor (110), condenser (120), and evaporator (130) described below are merely exemplary, and the compressor (110), condenser (120), and evaporator (130) may be placed and arranged in reversed positions. Although the present invention is not limited thereto, the placement positions and arrangement directions of the compressor (110), condenser (120), and evaporator (130) will be described based on the exemplary embodiments shown.

[0178] The heat pump module (100) according to the present invention may include a compressor (110) that compresses the refrigerant and discharges the refrigerant in a high temperature and high pressure state.

[0179] As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the compressor (110) constituting the heat pump module (100) may be an electric compressor in which a compression unit that compresses a refrigerant in a gaseous state and a motor unit that generates rotational driving force to be provided to the compression unit are integrated.

[0180] At this time, considering the space utilization of the base (90)'s accommodation space, it is necessary to minimize the horizontal area occupied by the compressor (110) in the module base (160).

[0181] To this end, the compressor (110) can be placed on the module base (160) in an upright position where the rotation axis is arranged parallel to the up and down direction (UD direction).

[0182] A fastening tab (112) in the form of a flange may be provided at the bottom of the compressor body (111) of the compressor (110) so that it can be installed and fixed to the module base (160) in an upright state.

[0183] In the illustrated embodiment, a total of three fastening tabs (112) are provided, and each fastening tab (112) is arranged at equal intervals from each other. However, this is merely an example, and the number of fastening tabs (112) may be set differently depending on the shape and arrangement of the compressor (110).

[0184] Corresponding to the fastening tab (112) of the compressor (110), the base plate (161) of the module base (160) may be integrally provided with a fastening boss (164, FIG. 13 and FIG. 14).

[0185] The fastening tab (112) of the compressor (110) can be firmly fastened to the fastening boss (164) of the base plate (161) through a fastening means such as a screw bolt.

[0186] In order to reduce vibration or noise generated in the compressor (110), a bumper having a certain elasticity may be provided between the fastening tab (112) and the fastening boss.

[0187] Meanwhile, as shown in FIG. 7, the compressor (110) can be positioned between the sump (41) and the main control panel (210) when viewed from the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0188] Additionally, the compressor (110) can be positioned between the main control panel (210) and the evaporator (130) when viewed from the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0189] Additionally, the compressor (110) can be positioned closer to the main control panel (210) than the sump (41) when viewed from the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0190] Accordingly, as illustrated in FIG. 8, when the main control panel (210) is removed from the left wall (94) of the base (90), the compressor (110) can be exposed to the external space of the base (90) through the left open area (OS_Le) formed on the left wall (94) among the outer perimeter walls of the base (90).

[0191] The left open area (OS_Le) can be formed in the portion excluding the load-bearing portion (97) formed at the corner where the front wall (92) of the base (90) and the left wall (94) of the base (90) meet.

[0192] Through this, when viewed from the upper direction (U-direction), the left open area (OS_Le) can be formed to include an intermediate position based on the front-rear direction (FR direction) of the left wall (94) of the base (90).

[0193] Through this, accessibility to components of the dishwasher (1), such as the compressor (110) positioned close to the left wall (94) of the base (90), can be improved, and convenience of maintenance for these components can be improved.

[0194] As shown in FIGS. 9 to 11, the vertical (UD direction) width of the left open area (OS_Le) formed on the left wall (94) of the base (90) can be formed to be equal to or larger than the vertical (UD direction) width of the main control panel (210).

[0195] Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 9 to 11, the left-right width of the left-left open area (OS_Le) formed on the left wall (94) of the base (90) may be formed to be equal to or larger than the left-right width (Le-Ri direction) of the main control panel (210).

[0196] Through this, the compressor (110) can be exposed to the entire external space of the base (90) through the left open area (OS_Le) formed on the left wall (94) of the base (90).

[0197] As described below, based on the embodiment, the lower part of the main control panel (210) is configured to be supported by the module base (160).

[0198] Therefore, the role of the left wall (94) of the base (90) can be performed by the left wall among the border walls (1613) of the base plate (161) constituting the module base (160).

[0199] At this time, as shown in FIG. 7, the compressor (110) is positioned very close to the left wall (94) of the base (90) with respect to the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0200] Therefore, a state can be formed where the user can access the compressor (110) without the need to remove the entire heat pump module (100).

[0201] As a result, simple maintenance measures for the compressor (110) are possible while the compressor (110) is housed in the base (90).

[0202] Here, simple maintenance measures can be defined as measures that can be carried out without taking specific components placed in the receiving space of the base (90) out to the external space of the base (90), such as measures for cleaning to remove foreign matter, replenishing or replacing refrigerant.

[0203] Conversely, the measure for complex maintenance can be defined as a measure for maintenance that is difficult enough to proceed without complete removal from the base (90).

[0204] For example, complex maintenance measures may include measures that cannot be performed inside the base (90), such as replacing or disassembling components of the heat pump module (100) or components housed in the base (90), such as a water softener (72) or a cleaning pump (45).

[0205] Meanwhile, although not shown, a right open area (OS_Ri) may be formed on the right wall (95) of the base (90).

[0206] The right open area (OS_Ri) can be formed in the portion excluding the load-bearing portion (97) formed at the corner where the front wall (92) of the base (90) and the right wall (95) of the base (90) meet.

[0207] Through this, when viewed from the upper direction (U-direction), the right open area (OS_Ri) can be formed to include an intermediate position based on the front-rear direction (FR direction) of the right wall (95) of the base (90).

[0208] Through this, accessibility to components of the dishwasher (1), such as a water jacket (71) and a water softening device (72), which are positioned close to the right wall (95) of the base (90), can be improved, and convenience of maintenance for these components can be improved.

[0209] Through this, a state can be formed in which the water softening device (72) is fully exposed through the right open area (OS_Ri) formed on the right wall (95) of the base (90), similar to the compressor (110).

[0210] Therefore, similar to the compressor (110), simple maintenance measures for the water softener (72) can be performed through the left open area (OS_Le) without the need to remove the entire heat pump module (100).

[0211] Meanwhile, as a space formed between the blower module (180) accommodated in the heat exchange duct (170) and the main control panel (210), the compressor (110) can be positioned as close as possible to the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170).

[0212] Through this, the compressor (110) can be exposed to the airflow entering the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170), and the cooling effect on the compressor (110) can be improved.

[0213] Furthermore, as the airflow of air heated while passing through the compressor (110) flows into the heat exchange duct (170), the heat exchange efficiency of the evaporator (130) can be further improved compared to the conventional method.

[0214] At this time, in order to increase the exposure area for the airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged, at least a portion of the compressor (110) can be positioned further forward than the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170) in the forward direction (FR direction).

[0215] More specifically, the volume of the compressor (110) in the portion positioned further forward than the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170) can be positioned such that it is larger than the volume of the compressor (110) in the portion positioned further rearward than the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170).

[0216] In addition, the compressor (110) needs to be positioned in a location that minimizes interference with the sump (41) and minimizes the impact of leakage from the sump (41) and the wash pump (45).

[0217] To this end, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the compressor (110) can be positioned behind the sump (41) and the wash pump (45).

[0218] Additionally, the compressor (110) can be positioned so as not to overlap with the sump (41) and the wash pump (45) along the vertical direction (UD direction).

[0219] Additionally, the compressor (110) can be positioned so that the overlap with respect to the washing pump (45) is minimized based on the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0220] For example, the compressor (110) may be positioned such that the compressor body (111) constituting the compressor (110) and the pump body constituting the cleaning pump (45) do not overlap with each other based on the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0221] Accordingly, as illustrated in FIG. 8, when the main control panel (210) is removed from the left wall (94) of the base (90), a state can be formed in which the cleaning pump (45) is also fully exposed to the external space of the base (90) through the left open area (OS_Le) formed in the left wall (94).

[0222] Therefore, similar to the compressor (110), simple maintenance measures for the cleaning pump (45) can be taken through the left open area (OS_Le) without the need to remove the entire heat pump module (100).

[0223] Meanwhile, the heat pump module (100) may include a condenser (120) that performs heat exchange between the refrigerant and the washing water.

[0224] For example, the condenser (120) constituting the heat pump module (100) may be provided in the form of a double pipe in which the flow path of the washing water and the flow path of the refrigerant are formed together inside.

[0225] In order to effectively form a flow path for the washing water and a flow path for the refrigerant inside, the condenser (120) can be configured to have a cylindrical shape.

[0226] That is, in order to ensure that the flow path of the washing water and the flow path of the refrigerant are as long as possible along the central axis direction, the cylindrical condenser (120) can be formed with a width in the central axis direction that is much larger than its diameter.

[0227] However, in order to increase the heating capacity or heat exchange capacity for the washing water, the volume of the condenser (120) needs to be secured at a level greater than a predetermined level.

[0228] However, in order to be effectively and efficiently placed in the receiving space of the base (90) which is subject to height constraints in the vertical direction (UD direction), the condenser (120) can be arranged and combined with the base (90) such that the horizontal direction (Le-Ri direction) is the longitudinal direction.

[0229] That is, as illustrated, the condenser (120) can be configured to be fixed and supported directly or indirectly on the bottom surface (91) of the base (90) rather than the module base (160).

[0230] As described above, a washing water flow path through which washing water flows and a refrigerant flow path through which refrigerant flows can be formed inside the condenser (120).

[0231] Therefore, the condenser (120) can be formed to have the largest weight among the components constituting the heat pump module (100).

[0232] Accordingly, when the condenser (120) is configured to be installed and supported collectively on the module base (160) along with other components, there is a possibility that stress may be concentrated on a specific part of the base plate (161) of the module base (160) due to the weight of the condenser (120) during the process of removing or installing the heat pump module (100).

[0233] That is, in order to prevent damage to the module base (160) due to stress concentration caused by the weight of the condenser (120), the condenser (120) among the components of the heat pump module (100) may be configured to be installed and supported directly or indirectly on the base (90).

[0234] As illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11, a condenser supporter (96) that indirectly supports the condenser (120) with respect to the base (90) may be detachably disposed on the bottom surface (91) of the base (90).

[0235] The condenser supporter (96) may have a shape in which the lower part is detachably connected to the base (90) and the upper part is connected to the outer surface of the condenser (120) in a surface contact state.

[0236] A structure may be formed on the bottom surface (91) of the base (90) such that the lower portion of the condenser supporter (96) is detachably connected.

[0237] Additionally, the condenser (120) can be fixed and supported at a position spaced upward (U-direction) from the bottom surface (91) of the base (90) through the condenser supporter (96).

[0238] In the illustrated configuration, the condenser (120) is shown being supported and fixed through a single condenser supporter (96), but the shape and number of condenser supporters (96) may be applied differently depending on the size and shape of the condenser (120).

[0239] Meanwhile, the condenser (120) having a cylindrical shape may be configured as a segmented body that is divided along the longitudinal direction, for example.

[0240] More specifically, the condenser (120) composed of a divided body may include a first body (121) in which an inlet pipe (123) into which washing water to be heated is introduced is formed.

[0241] As illustrated by example, the inlet pipe (123) can be integrally formed on the outer surface of the first body (121).

[0242] Additionally, the condenser (120) composed of a divided body may include a second body (122) in which an outlet pipe (124) through which heated washing water is discharged is formed.

[0243] As illustrated by example, the outlet pipe (124) can be integrally formed on the outer surface of the second body (122).

[0244] Although not shown, a washing water pipe (190) can be connected to each of the inlet pipe (123) and the outlet pipe (124).

[0245] For example, one end of the first washing water pipe (191) can be connected to the inlet pipe (123) of the first body (121).

[0246] The other end of the first washing water pipe (191) can be connected to the inlet or outlet end of the washing pump (45) described above.

[0247] That is, the washing water before being pressurized by the washing pump (45) or the washing water pressurized by the washing pump (45) can be introduced into the condenser (120) through the other end of the first washing water pipe (191).

[0248] The present invention is not limited thereto, but below, the invention will be described based on a configuration in which the other end of the first washing water pipe (191) is connected to the outlet end of the washing pump (45), that is, a configuration in which the condenser (120) is connected downstream of the washing pump (45) based on the direction of flow of the washing water.

[0249] As the condenser (120) is connected downstream of the washing pump (45), washing water pressurized by the washing pump (45) can be introduced into the inlet pipe (123) of the first body (121) through the first washing water pipe (191).

[0250] Additionally, as an example, one end of the second washing water pipe (192) may be connected to the outlet pipe (124) of the second body (122).

[0251] The other end of the second washing water pipe (192) can be connected to the aforementioned supply flow switching valve (465).

[0252] Therefore, heated washing water can be delivered to the spray section through the second washing water pipe (192) via the supply flow switching valve (465).

[0253] Meanwhile, the first washing water pipe (191) and the second washing water pipe (192) can each be configured to have a material and shape that can be extended along the longitudinal direction.

[0254] To this end, the first washing water pipe (191) and the second washing water pipe (192) may be formed of a material having a material that is expandable along the longitudinal direction.

[0255] Alternatively, the first washing water pipe (191) and the second washing water pipe (192) may be formed to have a flexible shape, such as a corrugated pipe.

[0256] Through this, the process of separating the first washing water pipe (191) and the second washing water pipe (192) from the inlet pipe (123) and outlet pipe (124) of the condenser (120) in advance during the process of removing and separating the heat pump module (100) from the base (90) can be omitted.

[0257] Meanwhile, to increase the heating efficiency or heat exchange efficiency for the washing water, the outlet pipe (124) and the inlet pipe (123) of the condenser (120) may be positioned as far apart as possible along the longitudinal direction of the condenser (120).

[0258] To this end, based on the illustrated state, the inlet pipe (123) of the condenser (120) can be positioned as close as possible to the front end of the first body (121).

[0259] Additionally, the outlet pipe (124) of the condenser (120) can be positioned as close as possible to the rear end of the second body (122).

[0260] Meanwhile, a condenser refrigerant pipe may be introduced inside the first body (121) and the second body (122) of the condenser (120) to convert the gaseous refrigerant into a liquid refrigerant.

[0261] For example, the condenser refrigerant tube can be introduced into the interior of the condenser (120) through the front end of the first body (121).

[0262] The condenser refrigerant tube introduced into the interior of the condenser (120) may be formed to have a multilayer structure formed by bending multiple times or a coil structure wound multiple times in order to increase the heating efficiency or heat exchange efficiency for the cleaning water.

[0263] Meanwhile, as illustrated, the condenser (120) can be positioned in front of the sump (41) and the wash pump (45) based on the forward direction (FR direction).

[0264] More specifically, the condenser (120) constituting the heat pump module (100) can be positioned between the sump (41) and the front wall (92) of the base (90).

[0265] Additionally, the condenser (120) can be positioned closer to the front wall (92) of the base (90) than to the sump (41).

[0266] At this time, the condenser (120) can be positioned so that no part protrudes forward from the front wall (92) of the base (90). By doing so, interference of the condenser (120) with the lower frame (14) coupled to the front of the front wall (92) of the base (90) can be minimized.

[0267] More specifically, the lower frame (14) serves to cover the front opening area (OS_F) formed on the front wall (92) of the base (90).

[0268] To this end, the upper part of the lower frame (14) can be joined to the shear edge side of the lower wall (25) of the tub (20).

[0269] Additionally, the lower part of the lower frame (14) can be connected to the front wall (92) of the base (90).

[0270] At this time, the part of the lower frame (14) that is connected to the front wall (92) of the base (90) can be a front cover (141) that covers the front open area (OS_F) of the base (90).

[0271] Furthermore, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the lower frame (14) may further include a condenser cover (142) that is detachably coupled to the front cover (141).

[0272] Meanwhile, one end of the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) of the condenser cover (142) may be located further to the right than the center of the sump (41).

[0273] Additionally, the other end of the left and right side of the condenser cover (142) may be located further to the left than the center of the sump (41).

[0274] For example, one end of the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) can be the right end of the condenser cover (142).

[0275] Additionally, as an example, the other end in the left and right direction can be the left end of the condenser cover (142).

[0276] Therefore, when viewed from the front, the condenser (120) can be at least partially covered by the condenser cover (142), and at the same time, the sump (41) can be at least partially covered.

[0277] In addition, so that the condenser (120) can be at least partially covered by the condenser cover (142), the width of the condenser cover (142) in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) can be set to be smaller than or equal to the width of the condenser (120) in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0278] Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 9, a first front gap (GF1) can be formed between the front cover (141) and the front wall (92) of the base (90).

[0279] Additionally, a second front gap (GF2) may be formed between the condenser cover (142) and the front wall (92) of the base (90).

[0280] The first front gap (GF1) may have a left-right (Le-Ri direction) width (WGF1) corresponding to the left-right (Le-Ri direction) width of the front cover (141).

[0281] Additionally, the second front gap (GF2) may have a left-right (Le-Ri direction) width (WGF2) corresponding to the left-right (Le-Ri direction) width of the condenser cover (142).

[0282] Therefore, an external airflow can be introduced into the interior of the base (90) by passing through the first front gap (GF1), thereby creating an airflow (F_in) that will be heat-exchanged with the evaporator (130).

[0283] At this time, as described below, some of the airflow introduced through the first front gap (GF1) can be formed as an airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged by flowing toward the evaporator (130) through the space between the water softener (72) and the right wall (95) of the base (90).

[0284] Additionally, the remaining portion of the airflow introduced through the first front gap (GF1) can be formed as an airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged by flowing toward the evaporator (130) through the space between the washing pump (45) and the left wall (94) of the base (90).

[0285] Additionally, some of the airflow introduced through the second front gap (GF2) can pass through the rear condenser (120), pass through the space between the water softener (72) and the sump (41), and flow toward the evaporator (130) to form an airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged.

[0286] Additionally, some of the airflow introduced through the second front gap (GF2) can pass through the condenser (120) positioned at the rear, pass through the space between the washing pump (45) and the sump (41), and flow toward the evaporator (130) to form an airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged.

[0287] At this time, similar to the first front gap (GF1) and the second front gap (GF2) as shown in FIG. 9, a left gap (GL) may be formed between the main control panel (210) positioned on the left wall (94) of the base (90) and the lower wall (25) of the tub (20).

[0288] The left gap (GL) can be an open area that is not covered by the main control panel (210) among the left open areas (OS_Le) formed on the left wall (94) of the base (90).

[0289] Additionally, although not shown, a right gap (GR) may be formed between the water jacket (71) and the right wall (95) of the base (90).

[0290] The right gap (GR) can be an open area that is not covered by the water jacket (71) among the right open areas (OS_Ri) formed on the right wall (95) of the base (90).

[0291] In this way, a plurality of gaps through which external airflow can be introduced can be formed in the front open area (OS_F) formed on the front wall (92) of the base (90), the left open area (OS_Le) formed on the left wall (94), and the right open area (OS_Ri) formed on the right wall (95).

[0292] In this way, the present invention can be configured so that external airflow can be introduced into the interior of the base (90) in several directions, excluding the rear wall (93) of the base (90).

[0293] Therefore, waste heat from components that are mounted inside the base (90) and generate heat during operation can be effectively recovered, and overheating of components that may occur due to the airflow (F_in) to be heat exchanged not reaching a specific part of the base (90) can be effectively prevented.

[0294] The introduction of external airflow through gaps formed in various directions and the flow of airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged will be described later with reference to FIG. 16.

[0295] Meanwhile, the condenser cover (142) can be formed in a state where it is detachable from the lower frame (14) while the lower frame (14) is connected to the front wall (92) of the base (90) and the front cover (141) is connected to the front wall (92) of the base (90).

[0296] Accordingly, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, when the condenser cover (142) is removed from the front cover (141), a state can be formed in which the condenser (120) is at least partially exposed through the part where the condenser cover (142) is removed.

[0297] Additionally, when the lower frame (14) is completely removed from the front wall (92) of the base (90), a state can be formed in which the condenser (120) is completely exposed to the external space of the base (90) through the front opening area (OS_F) formed in the front wall (92).

[0298] The front open area (OS_F) can be formed in the portion excluding the load-bearing portion (97) formed at the corner where the front wall (92) of the base (90) and the left wall (94) of the base (90) meet, and the load-bearing portion (97) formed at the corner where the front wall (92) of the base (90) and the right wall (95) of the base (90) meet.

[0299] Through this, when viewed from the upper direction (U-direction), the front open area (OS_F) can be formed to include an intermediate position based on the front-rear direction (FR direction) of the front wall (92) of the base (90).

[0300] Through this, accessibility to components of the dishwasher (1), such as a condenser (120) positioned close to the front wall (92) of the base (90), can be improved, and convenience of maintenance for these components can be improved.

[0301] As described, the vertical (UD direction) width of the front open area (OS_F) formed on the front wall (92) of the base (90) can be formed to be larger than the vertical (UD direction) width of the condenser (120).

[0302] Additionally, the left-right width of the left-right open area (OS_Le) formed on the front wall (92) of the base (90) can be formed to be larger than the left-right width (Le-Ri direction) of the condenser (120).

[0303] Through this, a state can be formed in which the condenser (120) is entirely exposed to the external space of the base (90) through the front open area (OS_F).

[0304] Therefore, simple maintenance measures for the condenser (120) can be taken without the need to remove the entire heat pump module (100).

[0305] Furthermore, as the condenser (120) is positioned in such a location, the straight-line distance from the inlet pipe (123) and outlet pipe (124) of the condenser (120) to the inlet and outlet ends of the sump (41) or washing pump (45) can be minimized.

[0306] Therefore, the length of the first washing water pipe (191) connected to the inlet pipe (123) of the condenser (120) and the second washing water pipe (192) connected to the outlet pipe (124) of the condenser (120) can be minimized.

[0307] In addition, the space occupied by the first washing water pipe (191) and the second washing water pipe (192) inside the base (90) can be minimized. Therefore, the space utilization of the accommodation space of the base (90) can be improved.

[0308] Additionally, as illustrated, by being arranged lengthwise along the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction), the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) length of the condenser (120) can be increased. This allows the heat exchange capacity of the condenser (120) to be expanded.

[0309] In addition, with respect to the evaporator (130), the condenser (120) can be positioned at a location as far as possible from the evaporator (130) in the forward direction (FR direction). Therefore, the influence of the condenser (120) on the airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged with the evaporator (130) can be minimized.

[0310] Meanwhile, the heat pump module (100) may include an evaporator (130) into which refrigerant that has passed through a condenser (120) is introduced and in which the liquid refrigerant undergoes a phase change to a gaseous state.

[0311] As described above, the evaporator (130) is configured to undergo a phase change while exchanging heat with the airflow (F_in) generated through the air in the receiving space of the base (90).

[0312] Accordingly, similar to the condenser refrigerant tube, the evaporator (130) can be formed into a multi-row structure and a multi-layer structure formed by bending the evaporator refrigerant tube (131) multiple times.

[0313] Through this, the heat exchange area for the airflow (F_in) to be heat exchanged can be maximized. As described below, for example, an evaporator (130) having a 3-row / 4-layer structure can be applied by bending the evaporator refrigerant tube (131) multiple times.

[0314] Meanwhile, the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) of the evaporator (130) may be configured to exchange heat with the internal air of the receiving space of the base (90) or with external air introduced from the outside of the base (90).

[0315] Figure 6 and below illustrate an exemplary embodiment in which the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) of the evaporator (130) is configured to exchange heat with the internal air of the receiving space of the base (90).

[0316] The present invention is not limited thereto, but is described based on a configuration in which the internal air of the receiving space of the base (90) is exhausted to the outside of the base (90) after being heat-exchanged with the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) and heat exchange fin (132) of the evaporator (130).

[0317] Meanwhile, when the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) and heat exchange fin (132) of the evaporator (130) exchange heat with the internal air of the base (90), a flow path or passage needs to be formed so that the heat-exchanged air is discharged to the outside.

[0318] In this way, internal air needs to be positioned through the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) of the evaporator (130) and the shortest external path of the base (90).

[0319] To this end, the evaporator refrigerant tube (131) of the evaporator (130) can be positioned as close as possible to the rear wall (93) of the base (90).

[0320] Meanwhile, to maximize the heat exchange efficiency for the internal air of the base (90), the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) of the evaporator (130) can be accommodated inside the duct body (171) of the heat exchange duct (170) which forms a heat exchange path or heat exchange passage.

[0321] Accordingly, the duct body (171) of the heat exchange duct (170) can be positioned as close as possible to the rear wall (93) of the base (90) with the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) and heat exchange fin (132) housed inside.

[0322] Preferably, the evaporator (130) and the heat exchange duct (170) can be positioned on the base (90) such that the rear surface of the duct body (171) is in close contact with the rear wall (93) of the base (90) as much as possible.

[0323] Corresponding to the duct body (171), an outlet (934) that functions as a rear open area (OS_R) may be formed through the rear wall (93) of the base (90).

[0324] The heat-exchanged airflow (F_out) passing through the duct body (171) can be smoothly exhausted to the outside of the base (90) by passing through the outlet (934).

[0325] Additionally, as described below, the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) and heat exchange fin (132) constituting the evaporator (130) may be exposed to the external space of the base (90) through an outlet (934) that functions as a rear open area (OS_R).

[0326] Therefore, a state can be formed where the user can access the evaporator (130) without the need to remove the entire heat pump module (100).

[0327] As a result, simple maintenance measures for the compressor (110) are possible while the evaporator (130) is housed in the base (90).

[0328] Meanwhile, a blower module (180) may be disposed inside the duct body (171) to generate an airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged by accelerating the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) of the evaporator (130) and the internal air of the base (90).

[0329] In this case, for example, the blower module (180) may be configured to include only a single blower fan (181) and a single blower motor (182). Through this, the increase in volume of the heat exchange duct (170) can be suppressed to the maximum extent.

[0330] In addition, the space utilization of the base (90) can be improved.

[0331] The detailed configuration of the heat exchange duct (170) accommodating the evaporator (130) and the blower module (180), and the outlet (934) formed in the rear wall (93) of the base (90), will be described later with reference to FIGS. 12 to 15.

[0332] Meanwhile, the heat pump module (100) may include an expansion valve (140) disposed between the second pipe (152) and the third pipe (153).

[0333] In the illustrated embodiment, the expansion valve (140) may be positioned in front of the compressor (110) at a location where interference with the aforementioned compressor (110) and condenser (120) can be minimized.

[0334] Meanwhile, the heat pump module (100) may include a module base (160) that supports the aforementioned compressor (110), condenser (120), evaporator (130), and refrigerant piping (150) installed collectively.

[0335] More specifically, as illustrated, the module base (160) may include a plate-shaped base plate (161).

[0336] A compressor (110) and an evaporator (130) can be fixed collectively on the upper side of the base plate (161), and a compressor (110) and an evaporator (130) can be supported collectively.

[0337] As described above, a plurality of fastening bosses (164) may be integrally formed on the upper surface of the base plate (161) so that the compressor (110) and the evaporator (130) can each be individually fastened and supported.

[0338] However, considering the accommodation space of the base (90) which is subject to height constraints in the vertical direction (UD direction), the thickness of the base plate (161) can be formed to be approximately constant overall.

[0339] However, the heat pump module (100) is configured so that the compressor (110) and evaporator (130), etc., are fixed collectively to the module base (160) and are collectively inserted and removed from the base (90).

[0340] Accordingly, reinforcing ribs (1612) extending along the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) and the front-back direction (FR direction) may be integrally provided on the upper or lower surface of the base plate (161). Through this, the rigidity of the module base (160) can be reinforced and damage can be prevented during the process of taking in and taking out the heat pump module (100).

[0341] Meanwhile, as shown in FIG. 6, the shape of the module base (160) can be determined by considering the position and arrangement direction in which the compressor (110) and the evaporator (130) are respectively placed.

[0342] In addition, the external shape of the module base (160) can be determined to have a shape that avoids the sump (41) and the washing pump (45) placed on the base (90).

[0343] Considering this, when viewed from above, the base plate (161) of the module base (160) may have an L-shaped exterior, for example.

[0344] At this time, the rear edge of the base plate (161) can be extended linearly along the rear wall (93) of the base (90).

[0345] Additionally, the left edge of the base plate may extend linearly along the left wall (94) of the base (90).

[0346] Meanwhile, as described above, a main control panel (210) can be detachably disposed on the left wall (94) of the base (90).

[0347] The main control panel (210) controls the operation of electrical components by intermittently supplying power to electrical components such as a cleaning pump (45), a compressor (110), a blower motor (182), etc.

[0348] Therefore, in order to minimize the influence from the water jacket (71), water softener (72), sump (41), and wash pump (45) which may leak, the main control panel (210) may be placed on the left wall (94) of the base (90) at a position as far as possible from them as in the conventional method.

[0349] To this end, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, the main control panel (210) can be arranged along the edge of the left wall (94) of the base (90).

[0350] Additionally, the main control panel (210) can be positioned to cover the left open area (OS_Le) formed on the left wall (94) of the base (90).

[0351] In addition, to minimize damage caused by leakage, the main control panel (210) may be positioned at a location spaced upward (U-direction) from the bottom surface (91) of the base (90).

[0352] However, as described above, the heat pump module (100) of the present invention is configured to be inserted and removed through the left wall (94) of the base (90) where the main control panel (210) is installed.

[0353] That is, the heat pump module (100) of the present invention can be configured to be withdrawn from the base (90) while moving horizontally along the left direction (Le-direction) and to be inserted into the base (90) while moving horizontally along the right direction (Ri-direction).

[0354] Accordingly, considering that the main control panel (210) is positioned to block the inflow and outflow of the heat pump module (100), the main control panel (210) can be configured to be at least partially mounted on the module base (160) and at least partially supported by the module base (160).

[0355] FIGS. 6 to 8 illustrate, for example, a configuration in which the main control panel (210) is entirely supported on the module base (160).

[0356] A pair of installation ribs (162) may be provided on the module base (160) as a means for supporting and fixing the main control panel (210).

[0357] A main control panel (210) can be fastened to a pair of installation ribs (162) by means of fastening means such as screw bolts not shown.

[0358] Although not shown, the main control panel (210) can be fastened to the left wall (94) of the base (90) at a location different from the installation rib (162) through separate screw bolts, etc.

[0359] Additionally, a slot to which the lower part of the main control panel (210) is joined can be formed along the front-to-back direction (FR direction) between a pair of installation ribs (162).

[0360] Meanwhile, as the main control panel (210) is configured to be supported at least partially on the module base (160), an area on the base plate (161) for mounting the main control panel (210) may be formed.

[0361] As shown in FIG. 6, the area where the main control panel (210) is mounted may be formed to the left of the area where the components of the heat pump module (100) are mounted.

[0362] Accordingly, the base plate (161) can be divided into a first area (A1) where the components of the heat pump module (100) are mounted and a second area (A2) where the main control panel (210) is mounted.

[0363] As described, the second region (A2) may extend along the front-rear direction (FR direction) on the left end edge side of the base plate (161).

[0364] Additionally, the second area (A2) may have a width in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) corresponding to the thickness in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) of the main control panel (210).

[0365] Meanwhile, the lower surface of the base plate (161) of the module base (160) can be placed on the base (90) in a state of surface contact with the bottom surface (91) of the base (90) as a whole.

[0366] A seating surface may be formed on the bottom surface (91) of the base (90) to which the base plate (161) is joined in a surface contact state.

[0367] The mounting surface of the base (90) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the base plate (161) of the module base (160) and an area corresponding to the area of ​​the base plate (161) of the module base (160).

[0368] Meanwhile, a guide rib (911) that protrudes along the upward direction (U-direction) from the bottom surface (91) may be integrally formed on the bottom surface (91) of the base (90).

[0369] As shown in FIG. 7, the guide rib (911) can be extended along the outer edge of the base plate (161) of the module base (160).

[0370] Additionally, the guide rib (911) may be provided in a barrier shape to have a shape corresponding to the outer edge of the base plate (161).

[0371] Therefore, the mounting position of the heat pump module (100) can be effectively guided by the guide rib (911) of the base (90).

[0372] In addition, the heat pump module (100) can be effectively prevented from moving out of its proper position by the guide rib (911) of the base (90).

[0373] In addition, the direction of movement of the heat pump module (100) can be effectively guided by the guide rib (911) of the base (90) when moving horizontally in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) for mounting and removing the heat pump module (100).

[0374] [Detailed configuration of the heat exchange duct and base outlet]

[0375] With reference to FIGS. 12 to 15 below, the detailed configuration of the heat exchange duct (170) constituting the heat pump module (100) according to the present invention and the detailed configuration of the outlet (934) through which the heat-exchanged airflow (F_out) in the heat exchange duct (170) is exhausted will be explained.

[0376] First, referring to FIGS. 12 to 14, the heat exchange duct (170) of the heat pump module (100) according to the present invention may include a duct body (171) that accommodates an evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) and a blower module (180) inside.

[0377] The duct body (171) serves to accommodate the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) and heat exchange fin (132) that constitute the evaporator (130) inside.

[0378] To this end, the duct body (171) may include a first duct section (1711) that accommodates an evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) and a heat exchange fin (132) inside.

[0379] As described above, considering the shape of the evaporator (130) in which the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) is the length direction and the front-back direction (FR direction) is the thickness direction, the first duct section (1711) may be configured in the shape of a hollow cuboid box in which the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) is the length direction and the front-back direction (FR direction) is the thickness direction.

[0380] Additionally, the duct body (171) may include a second duct section (1712) that accommodates a blower module (180) inside.

[0381] As illustrated, the blower module (180) may be configured to include only a single blower fan (181) and a single blower motor (182).

[0382] Due to the constraint of the vertical (UD direction) size of the blower module (180) being installed, the blower fan (181) constituting the blower module (180) can be set to have a diameter smaller than the horizontal (Le-Ri direction) width of the evaporator (130).

[0383] Therefore, the width of the second duct section (1712) in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) can be formed to be smaller than the width of the first duct section (1711) in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0384] That is, the vertical cross-sectional area of ​​the second duct section (1712) can be formed to be smaller than the vertical cross-sectional area of ​​the first duct section (1711).

[0385] Therefore, when the second duct section (1712) is directly connected to the first duct section (1711), there is a risk that flow resistance and flow loss will occur significantly as the cross-sectional area of ​​the passage through which the heat-exchanged airflow (F_in) flows changes rapidly, thereby forming vortices or turbulence.

[0386] To this end, a third duct section (1713) with a vertical cross-sectional area that gradually expands may be provided between the first duct section (1711) and the second duct section (1712).

[0387] More specifically, considering the direction of travel of the airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged, the third duct section (1713) may have a shape in which the cross-sectional area gradually expands as it progresses from the front to the rear.

[0388] As described, the rear end of the third duct section (1713) is integrally connected to the first duct section (1711), and the front end of the third duct section (1713) can be integrally connected to the second duct section (1712).

[0389] Meanwhile, the heat exchange duct (170) serves to form a passage through which the airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged with the evaporator (130) flows.

[0390] To this end, the first duct section (1711), the second duct section (1712), and the third duct section (1713) constituting the heat exchange duct (170) may each be configured to have a hollow shape.

[0391] An intake port (170a) into which an airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged with the evaporator (130) is introduced can be formed through the front end surface of the second duct section (1712).

[0392] An exhaust port (170b) through which the airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged with the evaporator (130) is discharged can be formed through the rear end surface of the first duct section (1711).

[0393] Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 14, the internal air of the base (90) introduced through the intake port (170a) can be accelerated by the blower fan (181) to generate an airflow (F_in) that will be heat exchanged with the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) and the heat exchange fin (132).

[0394] At this time, as the flow cross-sectional area gradually expands while passing through the third duct section (1713), the airflow (F_in) can spread evenly toward the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) and the heat exchange fin (132).

[0395] As described below, an air filter (174) may be placed in front of the intake port (170a) to filter foreign substances contained in the airflow (F_in) entering through the intake port (170a). The detailed configuration of the air filter (174) will be described later with reference to FIGS. 19 to 23.

[0396] The airflow (F_out) that has been heat-exchanged with the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) and the heat exchange fin (132) can be discharged to the outside of the heat exchange duct (170) by passing through the exhaust port (170b) formed through the rear surface of the first duct section (1711).

[0397] At this time, the open area of ​​the exhaust port (170b) of the first duct section (1711) can be formed to be smaller than the area of ​​the space occupied by the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131).

[0398] This takes into account the opening area of ​​the outlet (934), which is formed through the rear wall (93) of the base (90) and functions as a rear open area (OS_R), as described below.

[0399] As described below, the outlet (934) formed in the rear wall (93) of the base (90) can be formed to be smaller than the area of ​​the space occupied by the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131).

[0400] Meanwhile, in order to be modularized like the aforementioned condenser (120) and compressor (110), the duct body (171) of the heat exchange duct (170) may be detachably coupled to the base plate (161) of the module base (160) or integrally connected to the base plate (161) of the module base (160).

[0401] FIGS. 12 to 14 illustrate a configuration in which the lower end of the first duct section (1711), the lower end of the second duct section (1712), and the lower end of the third duct section (1713) constituting the duct body (171) are each integrally connected to the upper surface of the base plate (161).

[0402] The present invention is not limited thereto, but below, it will be described based on an exemplary configuration in which the first duct section (1711), the second duct section (1712), and the third duct section (1713) are each integrally connected to the base plate (161).

[0403] Meanwhile, a blower module (180) that generates an airflow to be heat-exchanged with the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) and heat exchange fin (132) of the evaporator (130) may be disposed inside the duct body (171).

[0404] At this time, in order to minimize the increase in volume of the heat exchange duct (170) and increase space utilization, the blower module (180) may be configured to include a single blower fan (181) and a single blower motor (182).

[0405] In the illustrated embodiment, a configuration is shown in which the blower fan (181) is equipped as an axial fan that generates an axial airflow. However, this is merely illustrative, and blower fans of different types may be applied depending on the design conditions of the duct body (171), such as a Sirocco fan that becomes a centrifugal fan.

[0406] Meanwhile, due to the constraints on the vertical (UD direction) and horizontal (Le-Ri direction) sizes in which the blower module (180) is installed, the blower fan (181) constituting the blower module (180) can be set to have a diameter smaller than the horizontal (Le-Ri direction) width and vertical (UD direction) width of the evaporator (130).

[0407] As illustrated, the blower motor (182) can be supported by the bracket (183) so that the airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged is exposed by the bracket (183).

[0408] As shown in FIG. 13, a slot (1712a) having a front-to-back (FR direction) width corresponding to the front-to-back (FR direction) width of the bracket (183) of the blower module (180) may be formed inside the second duct section (1712).

[0409] With the blower motor (182) and blower fan (181) combined with the bracket (183), the bracket (183) can be inserted into the slot (1712a) of the second duct section (1712) in a sliding manner and combined.

[0410] Meanwhile, the first duct section (1711), the second duct section (1712), and the third duct section (1713) constituting the duct body (171) of the heat exchange duct (170) can each be configured so that their upper surfaces are completely open.

[0411] The heat exchange duct (170) may further include a duct cover (172) that serves to close the open upper surfaces of the first duct section (1711), the second duct section (1712), and the third duct section (1713) constituting the duct body (171).

[0412] As illustrated, the duct cover (172) may be configured to collectively close the top surface of the first duct section (1711), the top surface of the second duct section (1712), and the top surface of the third duct section (1713).

[0413] More specifically, the duct cover (172) may include a first cover portion (1721) that closes the open top surface of the first duct portion (1711), and a second cover portion (1722) that closes the open top surface of the second duct portion (1712) and the open top surface of the third duct portion (1713).

[0414] As described, the first cover portion (1721) and the second cover portion (1722) can be formed integrally with each other.

[0415] Through this, the leakage of the airflow (F_out) that has been heat-exchanged with the evaporator refrigerant tube (131) and the heat exchange fin (132) into the receiving space of the base (90) can be minimized.

[0416] Through this, the phenomenon in which the airflow (F_out) that has been heat-exchanged with the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) and heat exchange fin (132) is re-entered into the heat exchange duct (170) or leaked into the tub (20) and sump (41), thereby lowering the washing water temperature, can be minimized.

[0417] Additionally, the duct cover (172) can be detachably attached to the upper surface of the duct body (171).

[0418] For a detachable connection, a fastening tab (112) extending downward can be integrally provided on the left end surface and the right end surface of the first cover part (1721).

[0419] Corresponding to the fastening tab (112), a locking projection (1711a) that is engaged with the fastening tab (112) may be integrally formed on the left and right sides of the first duct section (1711).

[0420] Therefore, for maintenance and repair, the heat pump module (100) is removed from the bottom surface (91) of the base (90) and pulled out from the open left wall (94) of the base (90), and then only the duct cover (172) can be independently separated from the duct body (171).

[0421] Therefore, even if only the duct cover (172) is separated from the duct body (171), the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) and the blower module (180) housed inside the duct body (171) can be repaired or replaced. Accordingly, the convenience of maintenance and repair of the evaporator (130) and the blower module (180) can be improved.

[0422] Meanwhile, as described above, the airflow (F_out) that has been heat-exchanged with the evaporator (130) is configured to be exhausted to the outside of the dishwasher (1) after passing through the exhaust port (170b) of the heat exchange duct (170).

[0423] To this end, a discharge port (934) functioning as a rear open area (OS_R) may be formed through the rear wall (93) of the base (90) of the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention along the front-rear direction (FR direction).

[0424] As shown in FIG. 15, a pair of column sections (9311) supporting the load of the tub (20) may be integrally formed in the rear wall (93) of the base (90).

[0425] To prevent a decrease in strength, it may be difficult to form an outlet (934) at the location where a pair of pillars (9311) are formed.

[0426] Accordingly, the outlet (934) of the base (90) can be positioned and formed in a location that avoids a pair of pillars (9311).

[0427] Preferably, as illustrated, the duct body (171) of the heat exchange duct (170) is positioned in the area between a pair of column sections (9311) based on the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction), and an outlet (934) may be formed immediately behind the duct body (171).

[0428] As shown in FIG. 15, to distribute the load of the tub (20), a pair of column sections (9311) can be formed at positions symmetrical with respect to a centerline that divides the base (90) along the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0429] Accordingly, the duct body (171) of the heat exchange duct (170) and the outlet (934) of the base (90) can be positioned at a location approximately in the center of the rear wall (93) of the base (90) with respect to the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0430] However, as illustrated, the rear wall (93) of the base (90) may be configured to have a stepped shape.

[0431] More specifically, the rear wall (93) of the base (90) may include an upper wall surface (931) and a lower wall surface (932) formed by being concavely sunken forward from the upper wall surface (931) with respect to the front-rear direction (FR direction).

[0432] Therefore, a stepped space that is concavely sunken toward the front can be formed between the upper wall surface (931) and the ground where the base (90) is supported.

[0433] Such a stepped space may provide an area where a water supply pipe, drainage pipe, or power cable connected through the lower wall surface (932) of the rear wall (93) of the base (90) is placed or extended.

[0434] Meanwhile, as described above, the heat exchange duct (170) is positioned in close contact with the front surface of the rear wall (93) of the base (90).

[0435] Accordingly, the exhaust port (170b) of the heat exchange duct (170) can be positioned to belong to the area of ​​the upper wall surface (931) and the area of ​​the lower wall surface (932) of the rear wall (93) of the base (90).

[0436] With this in mind, the outlet (934) can be formed through so as to be in the area of ​​the upper wall surface (931) and the area of ​​the lower wall surface (932) of the rear wall (93) of the base (90).

[0437] Accordingly, the upper edge of the discharge port (934) may be positioned on the upper wall surface (931) of the rear wall (93), and the lower edge of the discharge port (934) may be positioned on the lower wall surface (932) of the rear wall (93).

[0438] Through this, a roof-shaped sunshade (933) can be formed on the rear upper part of the outlet (934) as shown in FIG. 15.

[0439] The airflow (F_out) flowing out through the outlet (934) can be guided in a flow direction to move along the stepped space by the stepped shape of the rear wall (93) of the base (90) and the sunshade portion (933) of the rear wall (93).

[0440] In other words, the stepped space can function as a passage through which the heat-exchanged airflow (F_out) flows.

[0441] Meanwhile, a guide vane (935) that guides the flow direction of the heat-exchanged airflow (F_out) may be placed at the outlet (934) of the base (90).

[0442] For example, the guide vane (935) can guide the flow direction by splitting the heat-exchanged airflow (F_out) so that some of it flows along the left direction (Le-direction) and the rest of it flows along the right direction (Ri-direction).

[0443] To this end, the guide vane (935) may include a plurality of first vanes (9351) that guide the heat-exchanged airflow (F_out) to flow in the stepped space along the left direction (Le-direction).

[0444] Additionally, the guide vane (935) may include a plurality of second vanes (9352) that guide the heat-exchanged airflow (F_out) to flow in the stepped space along the right direction (Ri-direction).

[0445] Additionally, the guide vane (935) may further include a vane frame (9353) that supports a plurality of first vanes (9351) and a plurality of second vanes (9352), respectively.

[0446] As described, a plurality of first vanes (9351) and a plurality of second vanes (9352) can each be connected to a vane frame (9353) so as to extend along the vertical direction (UD direction).

[0447] The vane frame (9353) may be provided in a rectangular frame shape corresponding to the shape of the outlet (934) of the base (90).

[0448] By means of the first vane (9351) and the second vane (9352) of such a guide vane (935), the heat-exchanged airflow (F_out) passing through the bottom surface (91) of the base (90) and being recirculated into the receiving space of the base (90) can be minimized.

[0449] Additionally, as illustrated, the vane frame (9353) can be detachably connected to the rear wall (93) of the base (90).

[0450] When the vane frame (9353) is removed from the rear wall (93) of the base (90) together with the first vane (9351) and the second vane (9352), the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) and heat exchange fin (132) constituting the evaporator (130) can be formed to be at least partially exposed to the external space of the base (90) through the outlet (934) which becomes the rear open area (OS_R).

[0451] Therefore, without the need to remove the entire heat pump module (100), a state in which the user can access the compressor (110) can be formed by removing only the guide vane (935) from the base (90).

[0452] As a result, with the evaporator (130) housed in the heat exchange duct (170), measures for simple maintenance can be taken for the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) and the heat exchange duct (170) constituting the evaporator (130).

[0453] Additionally, the internal space of the heat exchange duct (170) can also be exposed to the external space of the base (90) through the discharge port (934) that is open toward the rear. Through this, cleaning of the interior of the heat exchange duct (170) can be easily performed.

[0454] Meanwhile, as described above, the airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged with the evaporator (130) is configured to exchange heat with the air introduced from the outside of the dishwasher (1) into the interior of the receiving space of the base (90).

[0455] At this time, the air introduced from the outside of the dishwasher (1) into the interior of the receiving space of the base (90) can be configured so that the airflow of the outside air can be introduced into the interior of the base (90) in several directions, excluding the rear wall (93) of the base (90).

[0456] First, as shown in FIG. 16, external air can be introduced into the interior of the base (90) through the first front gap (GF1) and the second front gap (GF2) formed on the front wall (92) side of the base (90), thereby forming an airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged.

[0457] As described above, the first front gap (GF1) can be formed between the front cover (141) and the front wall (92) of the base (90).

[0458] The first front gap (GF1) may have a left-right (Le-Ri direction) width (WGF1) corresponding to the left-right (Le-Ri direction) width of the front cover (141).

[0459] At this time, some of the airflow introduced through the first front gap (GF1) can be formed as an airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged by flowing toward the evaporator (130) through the space between the water softener (72) and the right wall (95) of the base (90).

[0460] Additionally, the remaining portion of the airflow introduced through the first front gap (GF1) can be formed as an airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged by flowing toward the evaporator (130) through the space between the washing pump (45) and the left wall (94) of the base (90).

[0461] Additionally, as described above, the second front gap (GF2) can be formed between the condenser cover (142) and the front wall (92) of the base (90).

[0462] At this time, the right end, which becomes one end of the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) of the condenser cover (142), can be located further to the right than the center of the sump (41).

[0463] Additionally, the left end, which is the other end of the left and right direction of the condenser cover (142), can be located further to the left than the center of the sump (41).

[0464] Therefore, when viewed from the front, the condenser (120) can be at least partially covered by the condenser cover (142), and at the same time, the sump (41) can be at least partially covered.

[0465] In addition, so that the condenser (120) can be at least partially covered by the condenser cover (142), the width of the condenser cover (142) in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) can be set to be smaller than or equal to the width of the condenser (120) in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0466] At this time, the second front gap (GF2) may have a left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) width (WGF2) corresponding to the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) width of the condenser cover (142).

[0467] Therefore, some of the airflow introduced through the second front gap (GF2) can be formed as an airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged by passing through the condenser (120) located at the rear, passing through the space between the water softener (72) and the sump (41), and flowing toward the evaporator (130).

[0468] Additionally, some of the airflow introduced through the second front gap (GF2) can pass through the condenser (120) positioned at the rear, pass through the space between the washing pump (45) and the sump (41), and flow toward the evaporator (130) to form an airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged.

[0469] Additionally, similar to the first front gap (GF1) and the second front gap (GF2) as shown in FIG. 16, a left gap (GL) may be formed between the main control panel (210) positioned on the left wall (94) of the base (90) and the lower wall (25) of the tub (20).

[0470] The left gap (GL) can be an open area that is not covered by the main control panel (210) among the left open areas (OS_Le) formed on the left wall (94) of the base (90).

[0471] As described, the front-to-back (FR direction) width (WGL) of the left gap (GL) can be formed wider than the left-to-right (Le-Ri direction) width (WGF1) of the first front gap (GF1) and the left-to-right (Le-Ri direction) width (WGF2) of the second front gap (GF2).

[0472] That is, the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) width (WGF1) of the first front gap (GF1) and the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) width (WGF2) of the second front gap (GF2) can be formed to be narrower than the front-back direction (FR direction) width (WGL) of the left gap (GL).

[0473] In addition, the area of ​​the first front gap (GF1) and the area of ​​the second front gap (GF2) can be formed to be narrower than the area of ​​the left gap (GL).

[0474] Therefore, the amount of airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged generated through the area of ​​the first front gap (GF1) and the second front gap (GF2) is very small, making it difficult for a user passing the front side of the dishwasher (1) to feel the flow of airflow, thereby increasing convenience of use.

[0475] In addition, a structure can be formed in which a large amount of airflow can be sucked in through the space between the dishwasher (1) and other furniture or walls located on the outer side of the dishwasher, and the flow resistance of the sucked airflow is reduced.

[0476] Additionally, although not shown, a right gap (GR) may be formed between the water jacket (71) and the right wall (95) of the base (90).

[0477] The right gap (GR) can be an open area that is not covered by the water jacket (71) among the right open areas (OS_Ri) formed on the right wall (95) of the base (90).

[0478] At this time, the left gap (GL) and the right gap (GR) have a relatively larger opening area compared to the first front gap (GF1) and the second front gap (GF2).

[0479] Therefore, an external airflow with a relatively larger flow rate can be introduced toward the compressor (110) where a relatively larger heat is generated.

[0480] Through this, the waste heat recovery effect and the overheat prevention effect for the compressor (110) can be further improved.

[0481] Meanwhile, as described above, the airflow (F_out) that has been heat-exchanged with the evaporator (130) is exhausted to the outside of the dishwasher (1) through an outlet (934) formed on the central side of the rear wall (93) of the base (90) with respect to the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0482] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 16, the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) width of the outlet (934) can be formed to be narrower than the left-right direction width (WGF1) of the first front gap (GF1).

[0483] Additionally, the width of the outlet (934) in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) can be formed to be narrower than the width of the left gap (GL) in the front-back direction (WGL).

[0484] Additionally, the width of the outlet (934) in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) can be formed to be narrower than the width of the right gap (GR) in the front-back direction (WGR).

[0485] Accordingly, the present invention allows external airflow to be evenly introduced into the interior of the base (90) in multiple directions through the front wall (92), left wall (94), and right wall (95), excluding the rear wall (93) of the base (90), and the introduced airflow can converge toward the outlet (934) formed on the central side of the rear wall (93) while forming an airflow (F_in) to be heat-exchanged.

[0486] Therefore, waste heat from components that are mounted inside the base (90) and generate heat during operation can be effectively recovered, and overheating of components that may occur due to the airflow (F_in) to be heat exchanged not reaching a specific part of the base (90) can be effectively prevented.

[0487] [Detailed structure of the air filter and detachment structure of the base]

[0488] Hereinafter, the detailed configuration of the air guide (173) of the heat pump module (100) according to the present invention will be explained with reference to FIGS. 17 to 22.

[0489] As described above, an evaporator (130) is housed inside the duct body (171) of the heat exchange duct (170).

[0490] In addition, to increase the heat exchange efficiency of the evaporator refrigerant pipe (131) and heat exchange fin (132) constituting the evaporator (130), the airflow (F_in) generated through the blower module (180) is configured to be forcibly blown into the interior of the duct body (171) of the heat exchange duct (170).

[0491] Therefore, foreign substances such as dust may be introduced into the interior of the heat exchange duct (170) in the airflow (F_in) to be heat exchanged.

[0492] Additionally, the evaporator refrigerant tube (131) and heat exchange fin (132) housed inside the heat exchange duct (170) can generate condensate while exchanging heat with the incoming airflow (F_in).

[0493] There is a very high possibility that foul odors will be caused by contamination resulting from the mixture of generated condensate and foreign substances such as dust.

[0494] The heat pump module (100) according to the present invention may include an air filter (174) as a means for filtering foreign substances, such as dust, contained in the airflow (F_in) flowing into the heat exchange duct (170).

[0495] An air filter (174) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be positioned in front of the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170) in a manner that blocks the intake port (170a) in order to filter the airflow (F_in) flowing into the heat exchange duct (170).

[0496] However, due to the characteristics of the air filter (174), blockage occurs at a considerably short interval, so a cleaning process to remove filtered foreign matter must be performed frequently.

[0497] At this time, as described above, the intake port (170a) into which the airflow (F_in) is introduced is formed through the front surface of the duct body (171) of the heat exchange duct (170).

[0498] In this way, as the intake port (170a) is formed on the front surface of the duct body (171) of the heat exchange duct (170), the air filter (174) is formed on the rear wall (93) of the base (90) and is placed in a position that is difficult to access or extract through the discharge port (934), which becomes the rear open area (OS_R).

[0499] However, the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170) can be a location accessible through the left open area (OS_Le) formed on the left wall (94) of the aforementioned base (90).

[0500] Additionally, the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170) can be a location accessible through the aforementioned right-side open area (OS_Ri).

[0501] However, in order to access the air filter (174) through the left open area (OS_Le) or right open area (OS_Ri) of the base (90), the process of separating the left side panel (12) or right side panel (13) constituting the case (10) must be presupposed.

[0502] Therefore, in order to remove the air filter (174) in this way, the process of separating the left side panel (12) or the right side panel (13) of the case (10) must be performed first, which may cause significant inconvenience to the user.

[0503] In order to minimize such inconvenience, an air filter (174) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be detachably disposed through the rear wall (93) of the base (90).

[0504] In addition, an air filter (174) according to one embodiment of the present invention can be coupled to a base (90) so as to be movable relative to a heat exchange duct (170).

[0505] More specifically, as shown in FIG. 17, the air filter (174) may include a rectangular mesh portion (1741) that filters the airflow (F_in) entering the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170).

[0506] The mesh portion (1741) serves to filter foreign substances, such as dust, contained in the airflow (F_in) entering through the intake port (170a).

[0507] Accordingly, the mesh portion (1741) may be composed of a mesh net having a spacing between lines such that fine foreign substances, such as dust, cannot pass through.

[0508] At this time, the mesh net constituting the mesh portion (1741) may be composed of a metal mesh or a plastic mesh.

[0509] However, as described below, the mesh portion (1741) is configured so that its shape is deformed during the movement process of being mounted on the base (90).

[0510] Accordingly, the material and wire diameter of the mesh constituting the mesh section (1741) can be determined so that it has enough rigidity to easily deform its shape during the movement process.

[0511] Additionally, as described, the mesh portion (1741) is introduced from the rear wall (93) of the base (90) and then moved to a position that completely covers the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170).

[0512] Accordingly, the vertical width (W1) of the mesh section (1741) can be formed to be larger than the vertical (UD direction) width (W3) of the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170).

[0513] Additionally, the front-to-back width (W2) of the mesh portion (1741) can be formed to be larger than the left-to-right (Le-Ri direction) width of the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170).

[0514] Additionally, the width (W2) of the mesh section (1741) in the front-to-back direction (FR direction) can be formed to be larger than the width of the duct body (171) of the heat exchange duct (170) in the left-to-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0515] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 17, the air filter (174) may further include a grip portion (1742) coupled to the rear end of the mesh portion (1741).

[0516] As described below, the grip portion (1742) performs the function of being held by the user during the process of attaching and detaching the air filter (174).

[0517] Therefore, so that the user can maintain a gripping state, the grip portion (1742) may be positioned exposed to the outside of the base (90) rather than being introduced into the internal space of the base (90).

[0518] Furthermore, as described above, the horizontal rigidity of the mesh portion (1741) is formed to be significantly low so that the shape can be deformed during the movement process.

[0519] As described, the grip portion (1742) is coupled to the rear end of the mesh portion (1741) and is positioned to extend along the vertical direction (UD direction).

[0520] Accordingly, the vertical rigidity of the mesh portion (1741) can be reinforced by the grip portion (1742), and the mesh portion (1741) can be prevented from being deformed by its own weight while mounted on the base (90).

[0521] Meanwhile, the air filter (174) according to one embodiment of the present invention is configured to be detachably coupled to the base (90) through the rear wall (93) of the base (90) as described above.

[0522] To this end, a slit (936) through which the mesh portion (1741) of the air filter (174) passes can be formed in the rear wall (93) of the base (90) along the front-rear direction (FR direction).

[0523] At this time, the slit (936) can be extended along the vertical direction (UD direction) so that the mesh portion (1741) is in an upright state, that is, so that the thickness direction of the mesh portion (1741) becomes the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0524] Meanwhile, the width of the slit (936) in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) can be formed to be larger than the thickness of the mesh portion (1741).

[0525] Additionally, the width of the slit (936) in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) can be formed to be smaller than the width of the grip portion (1742) in the horizontal direction.

[0526] Through this, a state can be formed where the mesh portion (1741) can easily pass through the slit (936), but the grip portion (1742) cannot pass through the slit (936).

[0527] At this time, the width of the slit (936) in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) can be maintained at approximately constant.

[0528] Meanwhile, an air filter (174) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be disposed on the base (90) so as to be movable relative to the heat exchange duct (170) and the base (90).

[0529] That is, as described below, when relative movement begins after the front end of the mesh portion (1741) of the air filter (174) is inserted into the slit (936), the area of ​​the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170) that is covered by the mesh portion (1741) of the air filter (174) may gradually increase.

[0530] Meanwhile, the base (90) may include a guide rail (912) that supports the mesh portion (1741) of the air filter (174) so ​​that it can slide.

[0531] As illustrated in FIG. 17, the guide rail (912) can be continuously extended from the slit (936) to the left end of the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170).

[0532] At this time, the guide rail (912) may be provided in the shape of a barrier protruding upward (U-direction) from the bottom surface (91) of the base (90).

[0533] As described, the guide rail (912) can be formed at a position overlapping with the guide rib (911) formed on the bottom surface (91) of the base (90).

[0534] Accordingly, the guide rail (912) may be provided by forming a portion of the guide ribs (911) formed on the bottom surface (91) of the base (90) into a double-wall shape.

[0535] Meanwhile, a guide groove may be formed in the guide rail (912) that is concave from the top surface toward the lower direction (D-direction).

[0536] The guide home is configured so that the lower edge of the mesh portion (1741) of the air filter (174) is inserted.

[0537] Therefore, the width of the guide groove can be formed to be equal to or slightly larger than the thickness of the mesh portion (1741) of the air filter (174).

[0538] The sliding movement of the mesh portion (1741) can be guided with the lower edge of the mesh portion (1741) of the air filter (174) inserted into the guide groove of the guide rail (912).

[0539] However, as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the slit (936) is formed at the rear of the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170) with respect to the front-rear direction (FR direction).

[0540] Additionally, the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170) is formed through the front surface of the duct body (171) of the heat exchange duct (170) along the front-rear direction (FR direction).

[0541] Therefore, after passing through the slit (936), the mesh portion (1741) needs to be moved with its direction of movement changed to a position where it covers the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170) from the front.

[0542] To this end, the guide rail (912) can be configured so that the direction of travel is changed.

[0543] More specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 18, the guide rail (912) may include a first rail section (9121) that extends linearly along the front-rear direction (FR direction).

[0544] Additionally, the guide rail (912) may include a second rail section (9122) in which the extension direction gradually changes from the front-back direction (FR direction) to the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0545] Additionally, the guide rail (912) may include a third rail section (9123) that extends linearly along the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0546] These first rail section (9121), second rail section (9122) and third rail section (9123) can be arranged sequentially and continuously.

[0547] Accordingly, as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, when the front end of the mesh portion (1741) is moved forward toward the slit (936) for mounting the air filter (174), the movement of the mesh portion (1741) can be guided by the first rail portion (9121) as shown in FIGS. 19.

[0548] Accordingly, the front end of the mesh section (1741) can be guided to move forward along the first rail section (9121).

[0549] Next, as illustrated in FIG. 20, when the front end of the mesh portion (1741) of the air filter (174) reaches the second rail portion (9122), the direction of movement of the front end of the mesh portion (1741) can be gradually changed to the left direction (Le-direction).

[0550] At this time, as the mesh section (1741) slides along the second rail section (9122) and the direction of movement of the mesh section (1741) is gradually changed, the shape of the mesh section (1741) can also be deformed in correspondence with the extension direction of the second rail section (9122).

[0551] Meanwhile, when the front end of the mesh portion (1741) of the air filter (174) moves out of the second rail portion (9122) and reaches the third rail portion (9123), the sliding direction of the front end of the mesh portion (1741) can be completely changed to face the left direction.

[0552] In this state, as the movement of the mesh section (1741) continues, the front end of the mesh section (1741) reaches the left end of the third rail section (9123), and the mounting of the mesh section (1741) can be completed.

[0553] As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, when the movement and mounting of the mesh section (1741) is completed, the intake port (170a) of the heat exchange duct (170) can be completely covered by the mesh section (1741).

[0554] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to the illustrated drawings, the present invention is not limited by the embodiments and drawings disclosed in this specification, and it is obvious that various modifications can be made by a person skilled in the art within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. Furthermore, even if the effects of the configuration according to the present invention were not explicitly described while describing the embodiments of the present invention above, it is natural to acknowledge that the effects predictable by said configuration should also be recognized. Explanation of the symbols

[0555] 1: Dishwasher 30: Door 20: Tub 90: Bass 100: Heat pump module

Claims

Claim 1 A dishwasher comprising: a tub forming a washing space and accommodating dishes; a base disposed below the tub; a sump storing washing water to be supplied to the tub; and a heat pump module disposed in the receiving space and heating the washing water supplied to the sump; wherein an open area is formed in the outer perimeter wall of the base to communicate the receiving space with an external space, and the heat pump module is exposed through the open area. Claim 2 A dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein the open areas are provided in plurality and formed to be open along different directions on the outer perimeter wall of the base. Claim 3 In claim 2, the heat pump module comprises a plurality of functionally distinct components, and at least some of the plurality of components are positioned adjacent to one of the plurality of open areas. Claim 4 A dishwasher according to claim 1, further comprising: a main control panel detachably disposed on one side wall among the outer perimeter walls; wherein the heat pump module comprises a compressor that compresses refrigerant and is disposed between the sump and the main control panel with respect to the left-right direction; wherein the open area comprises a one-side open area formed on the one side wall; wherein the main control panel is disposed in a state that covers the one-side open area; and wherein, when the main control panel is removed from the one side wall, the compressor is exposed to the outside through the one-side open area. Claim 5 In claim 4, the compressor is positioned closer to the main control panel than the sump with respect to the left-right direction in a dishwasher. Claim 6 A dishwasher according to claim 4, further comprising a washing pump positioned in front of the compressor and pressurizing washing water to be supplied to the tub; wherein when the main control panel is removed from the one side wall, the washing pump is exposed to the outside through the one side opening. Claim 7 A dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein the heat pump module comprises a condenser that heats washing water to be supplied to the tub, which is positioned between the sump and the front wall of the base with respect to the front-rear direction, and the open area comprises a front open area formed in the front wall, and the condenser is exposed to the outside through the front open area. Claim 8 In claim 7, the dishwasher is positioned on the base such that the left-right direction is the longitudinal direction. Claim 9 In claim 7, the condenser is positioned closer to the front wall of the base than the sump with respect to the front-rear direction in a dishwasher. Claim 10 A dishwasher according to claim 7, further comprising a condenser cover positioned in front of the condenser and positioned to cover the condenser, wherein one end of the condenser cover in the left / right direction is positioned further to the right than the center of the sump, and the other end of the condenser cover in the left / right direction is positioned further to the left than the center of the sump. Claim 11 A dishwasher according to claim 10, further comprising a water softening device positioned between the sump and the other side wall of the base with respect to the left-right direction and softening the washing water to be supplied to the sump; wherein one end of the condenser cover is positioned closer to the center of the sump than the right end of the water softening device with respect to the left-right direction. Claim 12 A dishwasher according to claim 10, further comprising a washing pump that pressurizes washing water to be supplied to the tub; wherein the other end of the condenser cover is positioned closer to the center of the sump than the left end of the washing pump with respect to the left-right direction. Claim 13 A dishwasher according to claim 10, further comprising a lower frame having a lower portion coupled to the front wall of the base, wherein the condenser cover is coupled to the front wall of the base or the lower frame, and a front gap is formed between the condenser cover and the front wall of the base or between the condenser cover and the lower frame. Claim 14 A dishwasher according to claim 13, further comprising a main control panel detachably disposed on one side wall among the outer perimeter walls, wherein a left gap is formed between the top of the main control panel and the tub, and the left-right width of the front gap is narrower than the front-back width of the left gap. Claim 15 A dishwasher according to claim 10, further comprising a lower frame having a lower portion coupled to the front wall of the base, wherein the condenser cover is detachably coupled to the lower frame, and the condenser cover is detachably coupled to the lower frame while the lower frame is coupled to the front wall of the base. Claim 16 A dishwasher according to claim 1, further comprising a water softening device disposed between the sump and the other side wall of the base with respect to the left-right direction and softening the washing water to be supplied to the sump; wherein the open area includes an other side open area formed on the other side wall, and the water softening device is exposed to the outside through the other side open area. Claim 17 A dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein the heat pump module comprises an evaporator disposed between the sump and the rear wall of the base with respect to the front-rear direction, and the open area comprises a rear open area formed in the rear wall, and the evaporator is exposed to the outside through the rear open area. Claim 18 In claim 17, a dishwasher in which the evaporator is positioned closer to the rear wall of the base than the sump, based on the front-rear direction. Claim 19 In claim 17, the heat pump module further comprises a heat exchange duct that accommodates the evaporator internally and forms a passage through which an airflow to be heat exchanged with the evaporator flows; and the heat exchange duct is positioned to be in close contact with the inner surface of the rear wall of the base. Claim 20 In claim 19, the heat exchange duct is provided with an exhaust port through which the airflow heat-exchanged with the evaporator is discharged, the exhaust port is connected to the rear open area, and the airflow heat-exchanged with the evaporator passes through the rear open area and is exhausted to the outside, a dishwasher.

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